Cheap Flights to Hilversum from HK$2,971

If you're not prepared, airports and flying can be tough. But don't hit the panic button just yet. Follow these helpful hints and enjoy a trouble-free start to your time in Hilversum. What to pack in your hand luggage:

• The trick to having a worry-free flight experience is to pack ahead. So, let's start with the basics: passport, travel documents, credit cards and vital medications. Next, bring items that'll help keep you busy, like your laptop or a few magazines. It's also a wise idea to pack your chargers, a neck pillow and a pair of earphones. Last but not least, don't forget to pop in toiletry items like a toothbrush, cleansing wipes and a clean set of clothes.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• Squeeze all your full-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner in your checked baggage. Any liquids in your carry-on suitcase larger than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) will be confiscated by authorities. Sharp objects, like your pocket knife, and dangerous goods which are explosive or flammable, such as flares, chemicals agents and strong acids, are also prohibited.

What to wear on a flight:

• Your priority is to feel as comfortable as you can. Pick a pair of slip-on shoes, dress in loose, natural-fibre clothing and don't forget to take a pullover in case you get cold in the cabin.
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clotting condition caused by prolonged inactivity, can be a risk on long-haul flights. Walk around the cabin and give your legs a stretch or do some simple exercises in your seat to promote better circulation.

As savvy travellers know, the secret is to be organised before you reach the security gate. That way, you'll be hopping onto that plane to Hilversum in a flash. Follow these helpful tips and get your trip off to a great start:

• Airport security personnel first need to verify that you have a valid passport and travel documents before you're allowed to proceed any further. Keep them within easy reach.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your belt, jacket, keys and other contents of your pockets, like coins, will need to go through the X-ray machine. Make the whole process faster by removing them as your turn draws near.
• For just a few minutes, you'll need to unplug from the digital world. Your phone, laptop and any other electronic gadgets must also go through the scanner.
• Any liquids or gels, such as lip balm or cologne, that you want to bring on board need to be in containers no greater than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres). Also, they all must fit inside a quart-size (one litre), clear zip-close bag.
• It's also possible you'll be asked to take your shoes off for scanning, so wearing slip-on sneakers is always a wise idea.
• Airlines will not allow any sharp or pointed objects in your carry-on baggage. If you must bring these kinds of items, pack them in your checked baggage.